The Ultimate Guide to Navigating the New SAT & ACT

College Preparation
Written By Debbie Kanter

The world of standardized testing is undergoing major transformations with the new SAT that launched March 2024 and changes to the ACT scheduled for April 2025. These updates bring new testing formats, structures, and timelines that will impact high school students and college admissions. Read on for a detailed overview of what’s changing, how it will affect students, and key tips to help families prepare for the new versions of these tests.

The New SAT (Already Launched)

The new SAT is digital-only, with significant changes in format, question types, and adaptive testing. Here's a breakdown of what students should expect:

  • Shorter Test:

    • Old SAT: 3 hours 

    • New SAT: 2 hours and 14 minutes

  • Sections:

    • Reading & Writing:

      • 2 modules, 32 minutes each

      • 27 questions per module

    • Math:

      • 2 modules, 35 minutes each

      • 22 questions per module

  • Adaptive Format:

    • Every student will take a unique version of the SAT.

    • Questions adjust in difficulty based on performance, reducing the likelihood of cheating.

Notable Features of the New SAT

  1. Calculator Allowed for the entire Math section.

  2. Shorter Passages in Reading & Writing: Each question corresponds to a single, concise passage.

  3. Scoring:

    • 1600-point scale remains, with 800 points per section (Reading & Writing + Math).

  4. Test on the Bluebook App:

    • Students take the test using the Bluebook App on a computer or tablet, which includes built-in tools like a calculator, annotation feature, timer, and access to full-length digital practice tests.

  5. Weighted Questions:

    • Not all questions carry the same weight; the easiest questions and student-produced responses (non-multiple-choice math questions) have more impact on the final score.

Test Prep Tips for the New SAT

  • Focus on strategy: Answer as many questions as possible accurately but prioritize key questions that carry more weight.

  • Practice entering student-produced responses for math.

  • Familiarize yourself with the Bluebook App tools before test day.

The New ACT (April 2025 Launch)

While the ACT will also move to a digital format, it will not be adaptive like the new SAT. However, it introduces significant changes in structure, timing, and scoring. Here’s a preview of what’s coming:

  • Timeline:

    • April 2025: The new digital test will debut on April 5, 2025, for national test dates. Students will not have the option to select a paper and pencil option.

    • September 2025: Paper and pencil option will return for national testing.

    • Spring 2026: Both online and paper and pencil testing will be available for school-day exams.

  • Optional Science and Writing Sections:

    • The core ACT will now include only English, Math, and Reading.

    • Science and Writing sections will become optional.

    • Composite score will be the average of the core sections only (English, Math, and Reading).

    • The Science and Writing sections will each have their own score which will not be included in the overall composite score.

  • Shortened Duration:

    • Current ACT: 3 hours (without writing)

    • New ACT: 2 hours and 5 minutes for the core ACT (longer with the optional science sections)

4 Versions of the New ACT

Students will have the option to take the following versions:

  1. Core ACT (English, Math, Reading)

  2. Core ACT + Optional Science

  3. Core ACT + Optional Writing

  4. Core ACT + Optional Science and Writing

It’s still unclear which versions colleges will require or recommend.

New SAT vs. New ACT: Key Comparisons

Final Thoughts

The new SAT and ACT reflect efforts to modernize standardized testing and offer more efficient, targeted assessments. While the SAT emphasizes adaptive testing and simplicity with two sections, the ACT retains its traditional approach with more subject options and greater flexibility.

To prepare effectively, consider taking practice tests for both the new SAT and ACT to determine which format you prefer. Whichever test you choose, plan early and practice regularly to build confidence and reduce stress on test day!

Need help with college admissions?
Our team at North Shore College Consulting offers expert guidance with the college admissions process and more. Contact us today!

Debbie Kanter
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